Health Occupations Core Curriculum

Pursuing a healthcare degree is one of the smartest career moves an individual can make in today's challenging economic climate. Countless publications – including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – have reported that the healthcare field is one of the fastest growing sectors in the job market.
Healthcare jobs are expected to grow faster than any other industry — roughly 22%, or 3.2 million new jobs, by 2018. With an aging population, and a growing population, the need for well-trained healthcare professionals for homecare, nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare centers is critical.

ABOUT US

Maybe you are pursuing your first degree in the field of Echocardiology Technology, making a mid-life career change into the world of Invasive Cardiovascular Technology, or advancing your existing career by pursuing a degree in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Maybe you are exploring the possibilities of one of our other dynamic programs including Nursing, Biotechnology, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Medical Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Radiologic Sciences, Respiratory Care, Surgical Technology, or Vocational Nursing. Whichever path you’ve chosen, the Health Occupations Core Curriculum’s (HOCC) unique courses serve as an integral part of your chosen program’s curriculum. Students should become familiar with the entrance requirements of the professional program from which they plan to obtain their health degree in order to plan a course of study at ECC that includes the appropriate courses. The HOCC courses are designed to expose you to the exciting world of healthcare while providing the common knowledge, skills, and values necessary to perform your job effectively in the evolving health care workplace.

THE COURSES

HPRS 1202 WELLNESS AND HEALTH PROMOTION

Course Description: An overview of wellness theory and its application throughout the lifespan of an individual. Focus is on attitude development, impact of cultural beliefs, and communication of wellness. (2 Lec.)This is a WECM Course Number.Prerequisite: One of the following must be met: (1) DREA 0093 AND DWRI 0093; (2) English as a Second Language (ESOL) 0044 AND 0054; or (3) have met Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Reading and Writing standards AND DCCCD Writing score prerequisite requirement.

HPRS 1204 BASIC HEALTH PROFESSIONS SKILLS

Course Description: A study of the concepts that serve as the foundation for health profession courses, including client care and safety issues, basic client monitoring, and health documentation methods. (1 Lec., 3 Lab.)This is a WECM Course Number.Prerequisite: One of the following must be met: (1) DREA 0093 AND DWRI 0093; (2) English as a Second Language (ESOL) 0044 AND 0054; or (3) have met Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Reading and Writing standards AND DCCCD Writing score prerequisite requirement.

HPRS 2201 PATHOPHYSIOLOGY

Course Description: Study of the pathology and general health management of diseases and injuries across the life span. Topics include etiology, symptoms, and the physical and psychological reactions to diseases and injuries. (2 Lec.)This is a WECM Course Number.Prerequisite: SCIT 1407 or BIOL 2401 and/or approval of the HOCC Coordinator.

HPRS 2210 BASIC HEALTH PROFESSION SKILLS II

Course Description: This course builds on previously acquired knowledge and skills relevant to the professional development of the student. Lecture and simulated laboratory experiences prepare the student to perform patient care utilizing critical thinking and advanced clinical skills. (1 Lec., 3 Lab.)This is a WECM Course Number.Prerequisite: HPRS 1204

HPRS 2231 GENERAL HEALTH PROFESSIONS MANAGEMENT

Course Description: Exploration and application of management concepts necessary for effective health profession operations. (1 Lec., 2 Lab.)Prerequisite: One of the following must be met: (1) DREA 0093 AND DWRI 0093; (2) English as a Second Language (ESOL) 0044 AND 0054; or (3) have met Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Reading and Writing standards AND DCCCD Writing score prerequisite requirement.